Africa and China united by shared principles of harmony, brotherhood, and empathy – President Taye
Addis Ababa, January 9, 2026 (FMC) – President Taye Atske-Selassie underscored the importance of deepening Africa–China cooperation across cultural, technological, and economic fronts, highlighting the historic and multifaceted partnership between the two regions.
During his address at the launch of the 2026 China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges at the African Union Headquarters yesterday, he spoke alongside Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. The initiative aims to foster stronger ties between the peoples of Africa and China, advancing collaboration in education, innovation, culture, and social engagement.
President Taye described the Africa–China partnership as a relationship built on centuries of history, equality, and mutual respect. “This historic link has established a robust foundation for a relationship defined by dignity and mutual respect,” he said, emphasizing that Sino-African cooperation should serve as a catalyst for shared growth and prosperity.
Highlighting the evolution of the partnership, he said that what began in the 1980s as primarily government-to-government engagement has matured into diversified cooperation encompassing investment, technology, and capacity building.
He added that the program provides an opportunity to foster policy dialogue and connectivity between the peoples of Africa and China while shaping a forward-looking, inclusive partnership.
On cultural alignment, President Taye said African human-centric values—from Akan to Ubuntu, from ancient Ethiopian philosophy to the Luba-Lunda kingdoms—deeply resonate with Chinese values.
“The priority we give to social harmony mirrors the Confucian virtues of brotherhood, empathy, and reverence for life,” he said, describing the People-to-People Exchanges as heralding a new era of public diplomacy and cultural rejuvenation.
President Taye also highlighted China’s achievements in poverty eradication and technological innovation as a source of inspiration for Africa’s pursuit of self-reliance and technological autonomy.
He noted that China’s investments have supported Africa’s modernization, reinforcing an “all-weather” partnership across economic, social, and digital sectors.
Looking ahead, he said, “China’s expertise in green development, renewable energy, and the digital economy provides opportunities where Chinese innovation and African potential can work hand in hand to build a sustainable future.”
He stressed that historic and strategic ties must translate into tangible benefits for African citizens, advancing social, economic, and technological development across the continent.